Summon parties over violence, Dickson urges Abdulsalami panel, INEC

Former Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, has raised alarm over the increasing incidents of political violence and thuggery targeting the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), its candidates, and supporters. In a statement, Dickson condemned the growing trend of violence, emphasizing that it has no place in Nigeria's democratic process.

He called for an urgent all-party summit to address the situation, involving the Inter-Party Advisory Council, the Peace Committee, the Independent National Electoral Commission, and security agencies.

Dickson warned that failure to tackle the escalating violence could create a dangerous atmosphere, potentially disrupting or undermining the 2027 general elections. He stressed the importance of maintaining a peaceful and fair electoral process, urging political parties to renew their commitment to democratic norms.

Regarding internal party matters, Dickson discussed recent concerns raised by NDC officials and urged the party leadership to address the issues and ensure all members' interests are considered. He also revealed that arrangements were being made to appoint committed party members to various committees and directorates of the NDC National Campaign Council. The former governor directed the party's executive leadership to expedite the release of appointment lists, urging members to cooperate with the team.

Dickson emphasized the need for financial support to strengthen state chapters' operations and urged candidates and the presidential campaign team to prioritize the identification, verification, and training of polling agents. He encouraged cooperation with other political parties to strengthen the party's presence at polling units nationwide, while ensuring candidates have a significant voice in selecting and deploying agents involved in defending the party's interests during elections.